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Architectual boat tours - Chicago Forum

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Architectual boat tours

May 16, 2005, 4:57 PM

After checking the internet, I have discovered there are several companies offering Chicago architectual boat tours. Has anyone taken one they enjoyed? Some are 60 minutes and others 90 minutes. I don't know which to chose. Thanks.

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 16, 2005, 6:17 PM

sugar, check out the replies to my post about visiting Chicago-need advice from Chicago lovers, I got several great referrals about boat and walking tours.

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 17, 2005, 3:08 AM

I recommend the Chicago Architecture Foundation boat trip. I've done it twice and both times the docents have been really good. They know their stuff, love their city and are sooooo willing to answer everyone's questions.

See www.architecture.org for details

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 17, 2005, 10:46 AM

The 90 minute Architecture Foundation tour is the one that most people recommend, it is heavy on architecture, of course and goes only on the Chicago River.

If you are not a real architecture buff, any of the boat tours are fine, they give similar information but perhaps not as much in depth. I've also done the Wendella which hit both the river and the lake. The only downside IMO was that we spent 10-15 minutes going through the locks between the two but some people might find that interesting.

I have seen 2 for 1 coupons for Wendella, don't think I've ever seen a deal on the Architecture Foundation unless you join.

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 18, 2005, 5:53 PM

The Chicago Architecture Foundation tour is great. Just be careful passing under the bridges, I heard that Dave Mathew's Band is back in town. ;-)

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 20, 2005, 11:14 PM

They are great and worth the money!!!

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 27, 2005, 6:37 PM

I'd give my vote to the Architecture Foundation boat tour. Have been on it at least 5 times and it's always "new" because the guides are different. Consider booking ahead of time. And be aware that they "sail" rain or shine - - the one tour I took in the rain was still interesting !

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 30, 2005, 3:12 AM

We took the one that originated at a kiosk at Navy Pier. It was so fascinating, we're going again next month!

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Re: Architectual boat tours

May 30, 2005, 6:47 AM

I'd recommend the Wendella Boat Tours, which originate from the Michigan Ave. bridge over the Chicago River. The 60 Minute Architectural Tour is very informative, and the boats are comfortable and offer bathrooms and limited concessions. If you get a Chicago Coupon Book (free at one of the two city info centers), there are 2-for-1 coupons in the book that are valid Mon-Fri.

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Re: Architectual boat tours

Apr 27, 2008, 3:50 AM

does anyone know where is the city info center located so i could get the coupons for wndella boat tours??